Robbery prompts warning against walking in secluded areas in CBD

Police are cautioning Pretoria Central residents about the dangers of walking in secluded areas after recently recovering a stolen firearm while intercepting a robbery in progress in the CBD.

The firearm recovery took place on March 11 around 20:00 when a crime prevention team consisting of six members was conducting their normal duties in Potgieter Street.

The members came across two men, suspected of robbing two others of their belongings.

“The team acted immediately. Noticing the police, the suspects stormed off and fled the scene. The members gave a good chase but the suspects ran into the nearby bushes. While tracing, they spotted a shotgun that was dropped by the suspects. Upon arrival at the station, a circulation of the firearm was conducted and it belonged to a security company (not to be disclosed for investigation purposes). Fortunately, the two male victims did not sustain major injuries while being robbed,” said Central Saps spokesperson, Constable Thabang Nkhumise.

High visibility was maintained throughout the day and social crime prevention members, together with sector commanders in partnership with community safety, the CPF, crime prevention wardens, and the youth desk took to the streets to raise awareness of crime patterns starting to take place in the city.

The community was engaged and pamphlets were handed out to educate residents about whistleblowing, robberies, the Firearm Control Act, and related crimes.

Brigadier Hlengani Gibin Mashaba welcomed the discovery of the firearm and thanked the members for maintaining high visibility in the city and the policing precinct.

He also cautioned the community to be vigilant at all times and avoid walking in secluded areas.

The firearm has been sent to ballistic offices for forensic analysis.

Residents with information related to the robbery suspects can anonymously dial the crime stop line on 086000 10111, or dial 112 on any network provider and then follow the prompts, use the MYSAP app, or directly call the station on 012 353 5001.

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